Blog

STEM Education Facts – Sustainable Energy and Energy Savings are looking good – US Department of Energy

Steve Waddell • Oct 07, 2017

 

How are we doing as a nation saving energy and implementing sustainable power? In our STEM course Building Green & Residential Architecture & Construction we promote the best and the most sustainable strategies for construction and home design.

 

We are always fact checking and updating content. Let’s face it, STEM never sleeps. The very first version of this STEAM course was created in 2006. Back then, the energy numbers weren’t looking great. The US Department of Energy revisit of one of their reports we used 10 years ago gave us a nice wake-up call. We thought we should share our excitement for the future. Some of it stems from the fact that energy consumption coming from wind energy have grown three times as much as what was predicted.

A Review of Energy

In February of 2006, the United States Department of Energy made 30-year predictions regarding the nation’s production and usage of energy. We created a sample spreadsheet for an in-course activity based on the new numbers and one can clearly see that the predictions have been left in the dark (no pun intended), with a good nod towards the solar capacity’s astounding 4800% uptick.

Are we winning the global warming war? This report reveals a fascinating insight in that the actual numbers for CO2 emissions are down by 24 percent less as predicted in 2006. Yes, you heard that right- it’s less than what was predicted. The same goes for total energy consumption- we are looking at a 17 percent reduction in consumption as what was predicted. What’s more impressive is that the population is ever-growing. The US population numbered to 298 million in 2006. In 2016, it was 323 million. In the past we would have assumed that growth in population would have put more pressure on power demands. Fortunately, that has changed.

The total number of housing grew to around 135 million from 124 million during 2005 to 2016. The increase of homes should have brought energy consumption up as well, right? But through wise planning made by builders and home designers, energy demands were significantly reduced. We would have loved to think that somehow our STEM course was one of the key to all this change, but the reality is simply that the US population is now making better choices than before.

Our Goal to Save Energy

 

In our STEM Building Green (UC a-g Approved) , we discuss LED lighting, Energy Star, passive solar energy and other energy-efficient construction models. The industry is moving towards the right direction, and the STEAM students are learning to make smart and sustainable choices. Sure, we are bias that this starts in the classroom, but new technologies are being invented, implemented and improved upon because of STEM education and STEM careers. None of these things will be possible if not for STEM in the classroom.

 

Now let’s go back to energy production. Power generation using coal was cut to 45 less than what was predicted (helps in the fight against CO2). Alternative energy is enjoying an all-time high. Solar power generation has exceeded 4,813 percent than the forecast, while wind power generation is at an excess of 361 percent. We have decided to add one important article in the course, which talks about how some cities are now requiring the installation of solar panels for new homes being built.

News like this really drives it home for STEM education course developers. To see the results of people making better choices for a better shared sustainable future – it makes us happy. As we update courses and trends, I cannot say that we always see things going the right direction. However, this time was some good news we needed to share. We do love what we do.

STEM Curriculum Course Building Green - Energy Trends Section

STEM Curriculum Course Building Green – Energy Trends Section

Get in touch with us today!


You can book a demo directly using Calendly, call us directly at 913-764-4272 or 877-828-1216, or submit the form below and we will reach out to you.


We look forward to helping you and your students.

students with STEM certifications

Most Recent Posts

By Joshua Frisch 18 Mar, 2024
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as one of the most transformative technologies of the 21st century, revolutionizing industries, improving efficiency, and shaping the future of work. Against this backdrop, the decision to pursue a career in AI has become increasingly appealing for aspiring professionals. Our Artificial Intelligence and Mobile Robotics course teaches a new level of understanding of systems, coding, biology, and behavior to middle school and high school students interested in learning the soft skills and hard skills that will be in demand for decades to come. In this article, we'll explore the compelling reasons why AI is not just a good career choice but a smart one. Unprecedented Growth Opportunities The AI industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by advancements in machine learning, deep learning, and other AI subfields. According to market research, the global AI market is expected to reach a value of $190 billion by 2025, with AI permeating almost every sector, from healthcare and finance to retail and transportation. This rapid expansion translates into abundant job opportunities for AI professionals, ranging from data scientists and machine learning engineers to AI researchers and algorithm developers. With AI becoming increasingly integral to business operations and innovation, the demand for skilled AI talent is expected to continue surging in the years to come. Lucrative Salary Prospects AI professionals command some of the highest salaries in the tech industry, reflecting the scarcity of talent and the critical role of AI in driving business success. According to industry reports, AI specialists, including machine learning engineers and data scientists, can earn six-figure salaries, with compensation packages often including bonuses, stock options, and other incentives. This financial reward not only reflects the high demand for AI expertise but also underscores the value that companies place on individuals who can leverage AI to drive innovation, optimize processes, and deliver tangible business outcomes. For aspiring professionals seeking a lucrative and rewarding career path, AI offers unparalleled salary prospects and financial stability. Diverse Career Opportunities One of the most attractive features of pursuing a career in AI is the diverse range of career opportunities it offers. AI encompasses various subfields, including natural language processing, computer vision, robotics, and reinforcement learning, each presenting unique challenges and opportunities for innovation. Whether you're passionate about developing cutting-edge algorithms, building intelligent systems, or applying AI to solve real-world problems, there's a niche within AI where you can thrive. Moreover, AI professionals have the flexibility to work in diverse industries, from tech giants and startups to healthcare organizations and research institutions, allowing them to pursue paths that align with their interests, skills, and aspirations. Impactful Work with Global Reach AI has the potential to address some of the world's most pressing challenges, from healthcare and education to climate change and poverty alleviation. By harnessing the power of AI, professionals can develop innovative solutions that improve lives, enhance productivity, and drive positive societal change. Whether it's developing AI-driven medical diagnostics, optimizing supply chains, or combating climate change through data-driven approaches, AI enables professionals to make a meaningful impact on a global scale. The opportunity to work on projects with real-world significance and contribute to the greater good can be immensely rewarding for individuals who are passionate about leveraging technology for positive change. Continuous Learning and Innovation AI is a rapidly evolving field, characterized by constant innovation, experimentation, and discovery. As an AI professional, you'll have the opportunity to engage in lifelong learning, staying abreast of the latest developments, and honing your skills. Whether it's mastering new algorithms, exploring emerging technologies, or collaborating with experts from diverse disciplines, the journey of learning in AI is both challenging and fulfilling. Moreover, AI offers ample opportunities for creativity and innovation, allowing professionals to push the boundaries of what's possible and develop groundbreaking solutions to complex problems. By embracing a culture of continuous learning and innovation, AI professionals can stay ahead of the curve and remain at the forefront of this dynamic and rapidly evolving field. Start Your Career Today As AI continues to reshape industries and transform the way we live and work, the demand for skilled AI professionals is only expected to grow. For aspiring professionals seeking a rewarding and future-proof career path, AI presents a compelling opportunity to be at the forefront of technological innovation and shape the future of intelligent systems. By leveraging their skills, expertise, and passion for AI, professionals can embark on a journey of discovery, creativity, and impact, making AI not just a good career choice but a smart one. To set up a free demo of our AI and Mobile Robotics course or any of our other courses, call us at 913-764-4272 or schedule directly using Calendly .
school using video game design curriculum
By Joshua Frisch 08 Mar, 2024
Learn about how one teacher is using engaging video game design curriculum to get her students excited about STEM career pathways.
By Steve Waddell 06 Mar, 2024
The demand for new web and mobile games continues to surge, driven by the staggering numbers of players worldwide. With approximately 1 in 4 people globally engaging in mobile gaming and over 1.13 billion online gamers, the market shows no signs of slowing down. We offer a Web and Mobile Video Game Design course designed to prepare middle school and high school students for this exciting career pathway. In 2024 alone, the industry witnessed the release of over one million new mobile games annually across iOS and Android platforms. These figures are subject to slight fluctuations influenced by market dynamics and global events. Notably, statistics reveal a significant presence of women in mobile gaming, constituting 63% of the player base. Furthermore, while the US contributes 29% to global mobile game spending, a substantial 71% of revenue emanates from outside the US. Currently, there are approximately 500,000 mobile gaming apps available on Android platforms. The average age of mobile gamers stands at 36.3 years, indicating a broad demographic appeal. China leads the gaming market with over 700 million gamers, while the US boasts over 191 million mobile gamers, with both numbers continuing to grow. Browser-based games, or web games, are projected to become a market worth over $9 billion by 2027, highlighting the expanding opportunities in this sector. Additionally, gamification is increasingly permeating various industries, simplifying training and process descriptions, including marketing. A recent poll indicates that 50% of startups plan to integrate gaming elements into their strategies in the near future. One aspect of game development is web app games. These games appear as mobile games, but do not need to be downloaded to the mobile device. Unlike traditional mobile games that require purchase or download from app stores, web app games are accessible through any smartphone browser. Game designers are leveraging this to bypass app store fees and directly reach a broad audience eager for new gaming experiences. Game design is a broad field and allows many different opportunities for anyone interested in this industry. The obvious are game designers and game developers, but that is only a small part of the story. To build a successful game you need graphic artists, sound effects artists, audio engineers, project managers, producers, and game testers, just to name a few. The Opportunity In the realm of career opportunities, the demand for web design skills is skyrocketing in today's digital age. From small enterprises to multinational corporations, establishing a robust online presence is imperative for global competitiveness. Learning web design not only unlocks diverse opportunities but also equips individuals with sought-after skills applicable across industries. While some designers pursue four-year degrees, many enter the field armed with industry credentials, a strong portfolio, and some post-secondary education. Employers now prioritize industry certifications and portfolios over traditional college degrees, recognizing the value of practical skills and expertise. Embarking on a career in game design offers various pathways. While a formal degree program remains an option, an increasing number of studios and employers prefer industry credentials and portfolios. Lifelong learning is emphasized, with many designers opting for self-education supplemented by industry-based certifications to gain a competitive edge. Entrepreneurial individuals may opt to establish their own design businesses, offering autonomy over projects, clients, and schedules. Freelancing is another avenue, providing flexibility in choosing clients and setting rates, along with exposure to the global market and diverse collaborations. Beyond career prospects, game design enhances problem-solving and critical thinking skills, offering continuous learning opportunities and transferable skills applicable across diverse fields. Educators are encouraged to guide students towards this high-growth pathway, unlocking doors to successful and fulfilling careers in web and mobile game design. Check out our Web and Mobile Video Game Design course and contact us for a free demo.
Share by: